Angel Di Maria Receives Heroic Welcome as He Returns to Benfica After 13 Years
Angel Di Maria, the Argentine football star, has received an incredible welcome after re-signing for Benfica, the Portuguese club, 13 years after leaving for Real Madrid. The 35-year-old player recently quit Juventus after just 12 months in Serie A. Thousands of fans gathered outside the club’s stadium to welcome him back, and a host of huge red flares were let off as he made his way out to greet them.
Di Maria’s Return to Benfica
After leaving Paris Saint-Germain following seven years in the French capital, Di Maria moved to Juventus last summer. However, he has now returned to the club where it all began for him in Europe, signing a reported one-year deal. Benfica announced his arrival with a video that declared, “Welcome home, Di Maria.” The supporters of the Portuguese club showed their enthusiasm by gathering outside the Estadio da Luz for his official unveiling.
The Unveiling Ceremony
Benfica shared footage of Di Maria signing his contract in front of his new No.24 shirt alongside club president Rui Costa. The Argentine player then made his way out to a balcony high up in front of his adoring public, waving to the masses. The crowd erupted at the sight of their returning hero, and red flares filled the air with smoke. Di Maria addressed the crowd, sending them into a frenzy as they cheered his every sentence.
Di Maria’s Career Journey
Di Maria originally signed for Benfica from Rosario Central in 2007 at the age of 19. He played 121 times for the Eagles, helping them win a league title and two domestic cup triumphs before signing for Real Madrid in 2010. During his time in the Spanish capital, Di Maria won multiple trophies, including Real’s historic tenth Champions League crown in 2014. He then joined Manchester United but spent just one year at Old Trafford, citing the bad weather and calling Louis van Gaal the “worst coach” he has ever had. Di Maria went on to spend seven successful years at PSG before his move to Juventus.
Benfica’s Recent Success
Benfica won the Primeira Liga title for the first time since 2019 last season and reached the Champions League quarter-finals. The return of Di Maria, a seasoned and talented player, is expected to strengthen the team and boost their chances of further success in the upcoming season.
Conclusion
Angel Di Maria’s return to Benfica has been met with immense excitement and celebration from the club’s supporters. After leaving the Portuguese club 13 years ago, Di Maria has had a successful career playing for top clubs such as Real Madrid, Manchester United, PSG, and Juventus. His return to Benfica is seen as a homecoming for the Argentine player, and fans are hopeful that his experience and skills will contribute to the team’s success in the upcoming season. With the hero’s welcome he received, it is clear that Di Maria holds a special place in the hearts of Benfica supporters, and they are eager to see him back in action on the field.